Situated in the heart of the historic city, near the Trevi Fountain, Piazza di Spagna is one of the most famous squares in Rome and offers a beautiful view. A must-see place, it attracts a lot of people who come to rest on the steps connecting Piazza di Spagna to the Church of the Trinità dei Monti.
Piazza di Spagna owes its name to the presence of the Spanish embassy, which was established in the square in the 17th century. The square is lined with beautiful buildings in warm colours. But what makes the reputation of the Spanish square, is the perspective of the fountain of the Barcaccia to the church of the Trinità dei Monti, connected by a beautiful staircase built in the 18th century.
The barcaccia fountain was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII to Bernini (Bernini’s father). This original fountain represents a boat taking water. It was placed in a pit to overcome the problem of water pressure feeding the fountain. The fountain bears the arms of the Pope’s family, the Barberini, symbolised by bees.
The monumental staircase leads to the church of the Trinità dei Monti. Built in 1725 by the French, it connected these two parts of the city. Since then, it has become a place of rest and meeting for visitors.
An obelisk is placed at the top of the stairs. The staircase is particularly pleasant in April, when it is covered with blooming azaleas. At the top, at the foot of the church of the Trinità dei Monti, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Rome.